Valedictory Address

“Valedictory” University Monthly 29, 8 (June 1910): 192-201. (UA Case 68, Box 1)

Your Honor, Mr. President and Members of the Senate, Mr. Chancellor and Gentlemen of the Faculty, Mr. President and Members of the Associated Alumni, Fellow Students, Ladies and Gentlemen :

Years of unfolded time have wrought changes throughout this universe that must be traced to some origin. At first the molten mass, flung from the regions we know not where, hung in space and balanced by forces of opposing action, since then—this principle of change has marked not only progress and advancement, but also ruination and destruction. The ancient supremacy of Greece and Rome has passed from predominance, until today these nations are but decadent powers that mark the changes from the powerful to the weak. Throughout nature, this principle had ruled supreme—the passing away of the flora and the fauna of the past, making way for those of the present; the gutting of mountain by streams; the upheaval of hills, out of the sea; the departure of Adam from the Divine command, the resulting sin and despair, and everywhere throughout our material universe, the changes of Nature and humanity. It is due to evolution, grown out of the past, strengthened or weakened by surrounding influences and conditions and where the result survives, it is marked and seen. But evolution alone is not all—there must be some foundation, outside of the mere object to warrant a change; there must be some aid, linked with condition to cause alteration.

On a fine summer's day, the sun throws its life on this sphere. The world is in sunshine; the birds sing their sweet songs of praise and thanksgiving; on all sides the influence of the sun is seen and felt. And if suddenly a rolling tempest should roll onward and sweeping the face of the Heavens, cast gloom upon the land, threatening clouds shutter the rays of the sun and, in an instant the fury of pent-up thunder burst forth—we would wonder how all this could happen when, but a few moments before, the sun shone brightly in all its glory, but now darkness reigns. Such a commotion had been gaining strength for hours, clouds had been darting hither and thither, different gases had been generating—in preparation for this change. The day could not have been transformed from brightness into gloom, unless there had been a cause, and this cause lay in the preparation for such a change.

Gifted with an instinct from God, the birds build their nests. They work with untiring effort, gathering a string here, a straw there, to add to their future homes. The texture of their nests is complex and varied, the best materials are sought and added to their work—instinct teaches them to prepare for the future. And so everywhere this principle of change and development must be governed and controlled, to a great extent, by preparation and forethought. Today, when we as a class must change, we look back upon four years of preparation; years, when we have been training our lives, for that which we knew must follow; years, when preparation has been indirectly for this graduation, and directly for the world that is before us. The wisest material should have been sought, its texture strong and well chosen. The result should be an evolution from the old.

Here each professor of learning has worked hard for our progress, suffered at many times in our folly with patience and loyal fidelity, and grasping at all times the secrets of real preparation, has sought to train us in the way that we should go. These opportunities have been many, but have we profitted sufficiently by them? Those for morality, intellect, character and self culture have been strong and influential, each stretching their power beyond, pulsing out into our very lives and sounding their rhythm in hearts sympathetic. Constant chords of influence have sent forth their sounds to us all, but whether we have been found in harmony and concord we cannot say. If so, then such have been stored for the future, some day to emerge and exert their power and control over beings of weakness and reluctance. This power, this control has been cultured and refined from the efforts of many. Foremost of these are the Faculty, who, urging at all times the need of real preparation, have eventually placed the majority of our graduates on a supreme pedestal of power and control. Men, prepared during the past, who would grace the name of any college; men, in the past and the present, who have helped the generations in uplifting the weak and strengthening the strong.

The fruit of our preparation is yet but green, our real work has but begun and as we go forth to apply our experience and learning it must be with a feeling of pride and loyalty, lauding ourselves upon the good fortune that we were taught within these renowned walls—rejoicing in the fact that from here we graduate. The world and the future are before us, where we can carve our fortune or efface our possibilities—where the true fruit of our preparation, developed from morality, character and learning, shall be the influences that we exert around us. It must then be an evolution, even from the immediate past. The competitive world will offer no ties toward unity and strength—each must go forth and shoulder his responsibility alone, hindered by contrary reactions and retarded by opposing influences. What if we fail—we may, but we have tried, and rejoicing in that, can say with renewed vigor : "Not failure, but low aim, is crime."

If we follow the ideals and standards set up in our preparation our aims will be high and lofty, we can—we must. Danger and threatening clouds will beset our paths, but the determination for success, if strong, will rise like Phoenix of old and waft them to regions of oblivion and neglect and guide us anew upon the upward journey to success.

Classmates, let us remember at all times that we have prepared for the world and let us seek to apply that preparation when opportunity shall avail. Remember always—our preparation was sufficient. If we strive and win, ours will be the glory, but if we aspire and fail, it is not disgrace; let us consider it renewed strength to continue our efforts.

Today, according to old custom and formality, it is my duty to chronicle the history of our class. Although the privilege is esteemed and appreciated would that such a task were given another. Four years of association and intercourse have blended us in spirit and interest. Here friendship has been precious and it is with a deep sense of sadness that I narrate the history of a class, the members of which have stood shoulder to shoulder, for that history must end in our parting and farewell.

Classmates, recall with me the fall of 1906, when first we saw the flag of our Alma Mater floating upon the morning breeze. We were then strangers, now we depart, bonded by ties of truest friendship and loyalty. It has developed during the four years, “like a plant of slow growth, withstanding the shocks of adversity.” But let us review these few years, perhaps their recount will offer a consolation and sweetness in our parting hours.

When we sighted the green terrace, how odd, how strange it all seemed; We felt misplaced, for here was a form of life that was higher, nobler than our past, but soon we realized that here were fellows where harmony and sympathy were supreme. Our first year passed with the influx of sympathy and principle and when finished we considered our year's evolution strange yet wonderful.

During the summer of 1907, we yearned for the time when assembled once more we could sound our voices in unity and cause the old yell to reverberate through the cherished halls. We came, numbering forty-seven in all, increased by nine new members and diminished by six of our former fellows. This was a decidedly successful year for the
students, and I might venture, the Faculty also. Feelings grew, our heads expanded—we were Sophomores. With this year many changes began. A new department of Mechanical Engineering was established, with Professor Stephens at its head. As his manner became known, it was seen from the first that he was fated to become the students' favorite, and since he has been so, aiding in matters of student life, strengthening and encouraging us in our college work, rejoicing with us in our victories and lamenting in defeats. And, as
we bid a fond farewell to this professor, we collectively wish him all the joy and happiness, prosperity and success, due to a man of sterling qualities—such men make a University. Dr. Carson had succeeded Dr. Brittian in the chair of Chemistry, and although our associations with him came later it was seen from the results that the Senate had made a wise and discreet choice. His efforts for college spirit and his deep interest in student life have been warmly appreciated. On Dr. Bailey retiring from the University, after forty-seven years of fidelity and true service, Dr. Cox was appointed as Lecturer in Geology and Natural Science. His efforts were at once perceived, and he was hailed, with the feeling that in him was a man worthy of such a choice. The fourth new lecturer was Professor Cartmell, who was placed in the chair of Physics. At this time it may be said that the Physics Department was in a state of decline and disorder, but since the accession of Professor Cartmell, this decline has been regenerated, until it has eventually been placed upon the footing of today.

During this year our class was strong in numbers and quality, but taken all in all, including studies and our student routine, our second year of University life passed pleasantly and successfully.

The following year of our college life must be linked in narration. Although our numbers during the junior year were somewhat reduced, the same spirit, the same feelings were surely manifest.

Arriving in the autumn of 1908, it was with regret that we heard of the resignation of Professor Perrott as Dean of the Engineering Department. He had taught us the rudiments of our profession, he had devoted his interest for our welfare and showed us his deep learning, had exerted his innermost energies, for our advancement. Him we have not forgotten, and in his higher, merited sphere, we would extend to him our sincerest wishes for continued prosperity and happiness. He was succeeded by Professor Stone, who, coming from wide fields of experience and research, was ably fitted to fill such a place, and who since has shown the necessity and reward of diligence and labor. Dr. McDonald had resigned from the Chair of Philosophy being; succeeded by Dr. Kierstead. His talents were at once perceived, and he was again welcomed to his Alma Mater with feelings of pride and loyalty.

During the summer of 1908 an increased grant was secured for the establishment of a Forestry Department. This was founded under the Deanship of Professor Miller, who has since caused it to flourish to such an extent that it is now one of the foremost of Canada. This course is being looked upon with remarkable favor, and with pride we must consider it in its infancy of future vast advancement. The first graduates of this department are being crowned today, all going to positions of responsibility and trust—a deserved regard for such preparation.

Realizing at this time that college life was more than a mere trifle, the weight of our responsibility was felt. A new phase seemed to have crept in; two years of attention and respect had wrought changes of infinite worth. It seemed that we had some special part to play in the work of humanity; in short, it was the crisis of our lives, when preparation began to be realized. All became serious, a change had been wrought that was strange but important—the evolution from the old had been accomplished and felt. All must reach such a stage in their lives when, surrounded by great minds and noble men, the rough places are made smooth, the weaker qualities are thrust out, that the higher and nobler can reign in predominance and power. And so with the influx of self responsibility and sincere reality, our third yean of student life became tangled in the loom of real preparation.

Last fall we came again, strengthened by the addition of two engineers and with the consciousness that this was the beginning of the end. Two new lecturers came also. Professors Day and Uppval. Two strong men were thus added to the Faculty, men who were zealous and interested in their duties, with deepest intensity. Professor Day became lecturer in English while Professor Uppval was appointed to the Chair of French and German. The latter professor leaves our university this year with the return of Professor Geogeghan, and as he departs the good wishes of a sincere student body go with him, anxious to express their appreciation of his worth. With set teeth and strong determination we began our farewell year. The past has prepared us—influences had grown, powers had augmented, feelings and ideals had changed. It was the stage of University life that is recognized as the highest where we must exert our influence and wield our powers of control. This period is all but past and, as we look back, it must be with feelings of pride and satisfaction but still regret. Learned men have labored hard for our welfare, seeking to prepare us for the future, hoping to advance: our learning by sincere and determined efforts.

Linked with these superior influences we have derived much profit from our student departments. The Literary and Debating Society is of foremost importance, embracing, as it; does, the minor association and departments. In the direct line of this Society our experience has been marked. The advantages gained are fundamental and necessary; powers of speech and, pen are demanded, and although our Debating team was unsuccessful during the past season, it was seen from the talent of its members, that our Society is little behind that of such larger colleges, as Dalhousie. The publication of the University Monthly comes under the jurisdiction of this Society also. Here ample and sufficient opportunities are offered for those of literary talent, where they can voice their opinions by the might of their pen. The Monthly has had a most successful year and has banded more closely the students with the departed sons of our Alma Mater.

Athletics are also governed by this Society, indirectly granting monies for team trips in sisterly competition. In athletics it is disappointing to say that we have not been entirely successful, not due to lack of proper material or opposition among the athletes, but to absence of the necessary physical training. Football, during the past season, was successful with non-college teams, but In the Intercollegiate series it was discouraging to note that lack of training was the only cause for our defeats. And so with hockey, the hard grind of opposition, allied with insufficient practice, proved too great, and we fell, easy victims for the conquerors. The only sport in which we have excelled is in basketball, and under the guidance of a strong and energetic captain, our team, with ease and amusement, carried off the honors in each of the nine games played. In connection with athletics we can truly say, without any solicitation for sympathy, that our teams, since the entrance of the present graduating class, have experienced an apparent fate that seems to hover o'er us. Material has been of the most brilliant—we have been favored by the assistance of men who thought that success was certain, but always this mysterious fate has loomed up in the distance and has continually beckoned us on to certain defeat.

At St. Stephen, on May 27th, our track team carried off second honors at the Intercollegiate meet. Our team did all that could be expected from them, and although they were unsuccessful in not bringing home the trophy and although they were unable to withstand the onslaught of the athletes from the Acadian camp, the class and the whole college are none the less proud of the conscientious and earnest efforts made by the captain and his faithful followers.

The Engineering Society has had a decidedly successful year. Eminent engineers have submitted their services for our welfare and allied with tire faithful diligence of the Dean, our department hay prospered and grown.

The Society in connection with the Forestry Department has met with deserving good fortune, favored and nourished through the exertions of Professor Miller.

The ladies' organization, known as the Delta Rho, has nourished as never before. Debating has been the superior feature during the year; keen contests were held at intervals in which the ladies of our class were very successful.

The Y. M. C. A. and Y. W. C. A. of our college deserve special mention, not only for the good that they have done during the past year but also because of the captains of character who have led them. Each has sincerely sought to elevate the standards of our University and truly play their part in the work of humanity. There are the associations upon which true success depends, and may its future wax until the perfect day shall dawn a new era, a new power, a new control, for the cause and advancement of student life.

During the past year a Dramatic Society has been formed for the advancement of the amateur actors. On April 22nd, Shakespeare's “As You Like It” was presented and succeeded in pleasing the majority of the theatre-going public. Its success reflected much credit upon Professor Day, who concentrated his ablest efforts in its production.

"H. M. S. Pinafore" was presented by the Glee Club, in conjunction with the City Choral Society. This was a brilliant success, and here it was that one of our honored members showed once more his qualities of typical college spirit.

A few words must be said concerning our advantages of co-education. Pertaining to student life, it is a most redeeming influence; on merits —it is the best we have. The ladies of our college have been emblematic of ideals and inspiration, loyalty and sincere support and, acting as a balance for the student body, have counteracted and atoned for the unruly acts that have been committed. Their efforts for the advancement of college spirit have succeeded, and today the honor of our University, the upholding of its principles and the harmony of our student life must be largely credited to the efforts and influences of our fair young ladies.

In regard to our own class, the position of honor of our ladies is foremost and with the recognition of such we rejoice and applaud. Our lady classmates have been instrumental during the past few months in establishing an Alumnae Society, for future financial assistance of incoming students, and at the same time to bind more closely the connecting ties between their sister graduates. Their enthusiasm of spirit, their interest in our Alma Mater and their exertions for student welfare must be fully perceived and appreciated in the years to come.

It has been noted in the past that our Alma Mater has been receiving insufficient financial support from the government of this province, and that the annual grant made to it has been sadly deficient. The professors of our University are scholarly and efficient men
but they are certainly underpaid and are required to teach So many subjects that it is impossible to produce the best efficiency or to become specialists in any department. In order that our standards of the past may rise with an increased student body there must be an increased grant. We accuse none—our government is ideal, but for the advancement of our cause the success of our Alma Mater and the upholding of its standards it is necessary, from the student's standpoint that revenue be augmented. A government that has been emblematic of economy, purity and wisdom, should also consider the needs of the rising generation. The Chancellor, who best knows our needs, has striven hard for its cause, improving where it was wise, adding to deficiency, until eventually he has graced this fair University with a name more worthy than that of the past. Is there no reward for honest efforts? Should there be no encouragement for zeal and ambition? We sincerely trust that when we are scattered over this broad Dominion we shall learn with pleasure and in the sequence of Nature, of our Alma Mater strengthened, expanded and placed as justice demands upon the basis with similar government colleges.

Our hardest task has now to be done—we must bid farewell to this grand home, to our past associations—that almost sacred past. We must now comfort our feelings by mere remembrance, but that remembrance shall ever cling in times of solitude ; a remembrance that shall serve as inspiration for renewed effort. Our glowing hearts cannot express the gratitude that burns within, nor can opposing influences dampen such incessant fires; we depart, bestowing our sentiments, by endeavors for virtue and the good of mankind. When the members of our class are striving in the thankless world, regard us with the feeling that your efforts were appreciated and that wherever life finds us, we are striving to do your will and our duty. Learned professors, here is our wish, from the depths of our very hearts—"that the light of your examples may long linger in blessings, on those of us who may eventually take your posts, in this broad and busy world" Our strongest thanks cannot express our gratitude and although we have erred and caused aggravation, by ignorance and profound folly, we trust that pardons are granted and we dwell in the satisfaction of forgiveness and peace.

To the Chancellor we must say a few parting words. We regret his absence on this occasion—an occasion that he has indirectly prepared us for—a day, when as a foster father, he bids his children depart and go forth to do honor to his name and college. During four years he has fed us from his prolific learning; during four years he has told us the rewards of virtue and knowledge and the awful punishments of ignorance and folly. He has overstepped our expectations and has shown us the qualities and principles of a man—uncommon.

To the Dean of our engineering department we must also say farewell, and as our desires go forth for success and prosperity, it must be with a feeling conscious of your loyalty, conscious of your patience, conscious of your worth.

It is my duty, on behalf of the class to bid this Celestial City and its good citizens, a fond farewell. Your assistance and alliance have been warmly appreciated; your endeavors for hospitality and pleasures have not been in vain; your social examples, welded with your patronage and support, must always continue unpaid. The exertions of your press have expounded our cause, depicting our advancement, with sentiments of kindness and favor. Your churches have opened wide their doors and welcomed our invited approach—advising, ever urging, morality, character, religion. Your friendship shall always linger and remind us of a people where wishes were sincere, patronage appreciated and examples ideal.

To the undergraduates we must now surrender the helm. For the next three years the destiny of our Alma Mater is largely in your control. Your qualifications are many and sufficient and with our confidence of your noblest and best efforts you must now stand true to your trust. You have been faithful and worthy comrades; your friendship shall not be forgotten and now with the benediction of past fellowship and unity, we step forward, and you, but a pause behind.

Classmates, our sad moments have arrived; we must now for the last time assembled, survey our Alma Mater, our respected professors and our college friends. It is the saddest duty of our career, when with hearts of yearning and reluctance we must long linger over scenes of the past. We too must also part but with the knowledge of our ties and jewelled friendship, let us lament in silence—"the saddest thing of tongue or pen."

And now to Faculty, City, Friends, we sound the word that has crushed in human life many a heart of sadness and yearning—a single word—"Farewell, Farewell."